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Tests will tell whether Gardner needs surgery

Tests will tell whether Gardner needs surgery

ATLANTA -- It's likely the Yankees won't have any prognosis on the return of left fielder Brett Gardner until after he's done with further medical exams this week, manager Joe Girardi said on Monday.

Gardner has been on the disabled list with a strained right elbow since making a diving catch at Yankee Stadium against the Twins on April 17. The speedy outfielder has tried to recoup twice but has shut it down both times. Gardner saw Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion on Monday and is scheduled to be examined by Reds orthopedic physician Timothy Kremchek on Thursday.

Surgery is a possibility and would delay Gardner's return until well into the second half of the season. He played in nine games and was batting .321 at the time of the injury.

Before his club's game against the Braves at Turner Field on Monday night, Girardi said the Yankees have truly missed Gardner.

"It changes our offense because of his speed," Girardi said about Gardner. "And it changes our defense because he's going to run down so many balls. He had over 10 assists last year. To me, he was a Gold Glove left fielder. It changes us substantially."